2012 NHL Free Agents: Power Ranking Most Important Stars on Market

The regular season is over, and as many top teams gear up for the playoffs, there are just as many squads stuck having to look forward to the 2012-13 season and help to bolster their rosters.

Like seasons past, many studs are setting up to become free agents in what should be an exciting NHL offseason.

Also, many players that aren't free agents could be moved in big trades as some of the league's cellar teams fight to become playoff contenders next season.

Let's take a look at the newest power rankings for the league's most coveted players on the market.

1. Zach Parise, LW, New Jersey Devils

Parise should be able to pick up the biggest payday at a new location next year out of every NHL free agent on the market.

He's shown an unprecedented scoring touch and leadership beyond his years, and any team struggling in those categories with cap space should make a big run at him and drop the checkbook at his feet while they're at it.

2. Ryan Suter, D, Nashville Predators

Suter's future in Music City has more to do with this year's playoff run than anything. If their new additions Andrei Kostitsyn and Alex Radulov can explode offensively and lead the Predators to their first Stanley Cup, Suter is all but locked down in Nashville.

Nashville will be in big trouble if they lose out on one half of the league's best defensive pairing.

3. Alexander Semin, LW, Washington Capitals

Semin has been trade bait pretty much all season since their first-round collapse in the 2011 playoffs. The Caps managed to squeak into the playoffs this year, but it was a depressing season at best and they are looking to make some changes.

He could still make a return to his native Russia to play in the KHL, which has been throwing money around. It'll take a big offer from an NHL team to keep him in North America.

4. Shea Weber, D, Nashville Predators

A restricted free-agent status and a more assured stay in Nashville is the only thing separating Weber from the No. 1 spot on this list. He's easily the best player on this list, but his chances of moving aren't very high. 

Like Suter's situation though, a first-round playoff exit could persuade Weber to take his talents to a "better" playoff contender. Right now, there aren't many better places to be than Nashville.

5. Carey Price, G, Montreal Canadiens

Price missed the end of the 2011 season with a nagging concussion, but he displayed some of the most impressive goaltending over the last couple of seasons.

He's a franchise player who would bring in consistent leadership, as well as lock down the goalie position on his respective team for many years.